The mathematical logic of “a little bit equals good, so a whole lot more equals great” doesn’t always add up. A pint of Graeter’s on occasion is a lovely treat; five pints at once could trigger a butterfat-and-sugar brainfreeze/coma. In that light, what are we to make of the guitar supergroup Generation Axe and its “Night of Guitars” tour? If reputations can be set aside and egos assuaged for a month or so, this could be one of the most stunning evenings of guitar performances ever mounted on a single stage.
A quick review of the participants reveals the potential for shock-and-awe (or duck-and-cover): Yngwie Malmsteen is a shredder of legendary proportions; Steve Vai is a decorated veteran of bands fronted by Frank Zappa, David Lee Roth and David Coverdale (namely Whitesnake) who has also maintained a prolific solo career; Zakk Wylde came to prominence as the late Randy Rhoads’ replacement in Ozzy Osbourne’s band, as well as with his own Black Label Society; Nuno Bettencourt was the six-string commando for Extreme, Perry Farrell’s Satellite Party and many others; and Tosin Abasi is the jaw-dropping neck strangler for Metalcore maniacs Reflux and Prog/Metal outfit Animals as Leaders. This concept isn’t a new idea; both Vai and Malmsteen have toured with Joe Satriani’s G3 group, proof that three towering guitarists can co-exist on the same tour.
The advance press promises a taste of each performer’s rich catalog, as well as a few choice covers and some fascinating obscurities.
Find tickets/more info here.
